The passage of HB 4230 would significantly shift funding from domestic revenue services to border security operations. Proponents argue that this reallocation is essential for addressing immediate security threats at the border. By funding physical barriers and personnel at Customs and Border Protection, the bill aims to enhance the enforcement capabilities related to immigration and drug trafficking across the southern border. The impacts could also extend to the broader discussions of fiscal priorities within federal spending.
Summary
House Bill 4230, titled 'The Fund Our Border Not The IRS Act of 2023', aims to address border security concerns by reallocating funds intended for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) under the Inflation Reduction Act. Specifically, the bill proposes to transfer unobligated balances from the IRS budget to the Secretary of Homeland Security to enhance border security measures. This includes funding for salaries, expenses of U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents, and constructing physical barriers along the southern border of the United States.
Contention
However, the bill has faced contention related to its implications for the IRS and overall governance of fiscal resources. Critics argue that diverting funds from the IRS could undermine essential functions such as tax collection and enforcement, which are crucial for maintaining government revenue. This has prompted debate about prioritizing border security over domestic fiscal responsibilities. The balance between security needs and the operational efficacy of the IRS is a key point of contention surrounding the proposed legislation.
DIGNIDAD (Dignity) Act of 2023 Dignity for Immigrants while Guarding our Nation to Ignite and Deliver the American Dream Act of 2023 American Promise Act Transnational Criminal Organization Prevention and Elimination Act Protecting Sensitive Locations Act Dream Act Legal Workforce Act American Prosperity and Competitiveness Act H–2B Returning Worker Exception Act American Dream and Promise Act Border Security for America Act
Fund and Complete the Border Wall Act This bill establishes funding for a U.S.-Mexico border barrier and revises how border patrol agents are compensated for overtime. The Department of the Treasury shall set up an account for funding the design, construction, and maintenance of the barrier. The funds in the account are appropriated only for that purpose and for vehicles and equipment for border patrol agents. For each fiscal year, financial assistance to a country shall be reduced by $2,000 for each citizen or national of that country apprehended for illegally entering the United States through its southern border. The reduced amount shall be transferred to the border barrier account. The Department of State may opt not to reduce amounts appropriated to Mexico for various military and law enforcement-related activities. This bill establishes a 5% fee on foreign remittance transfers and increases the fee for the arrival/departure I-94 form for various aliens entering the United States, with part of the fees to go into the border barrier account. By December 31, 2023, DHS shall (1) take all actions necessary, including constructing barriers, to prevent illegal crossings along the U.S.-Mexico barrier; and (2) achieve operational control over all U.S. international borders. The bill changes how border patrol agents receive overtime pay when working up to 100 hours in a two-week period. For hours worked above 80, an agent shall receive at least 150% of the agent's regular hourly rate.